Pasko Ang Pinakamagandang Kwento, ABS-CBN Christmas Special ID 2023

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ABS-CBN finally released its new Christmas ID titled “Pasko ang Pinakamagandang Kwento.”

“ABS-CBN ngayon, we are not just a channel di ba. We are not just in broadcast. Hangang saan pwede magkwento. Sine-celebrate natin tayo bilang storyteller. Ino-honor natin 'yung Christmas story as the best story told,” Robert Labayen, head of ABS-CBN Creative Communications Management, said.

Labayen, who was among the creative forces behind all previous Christmas Station IDs, highlighted that the song is rooted in gratitude.

“We want to thank all the people who are with us kahit ang daming pinagdaanan. Audience, partners, our stars, talents, dito kayo. And of course, every Filipino who supports us,” he added.

ABS-CBN music creative director Jonathan Manalo, meanwhile, said that the Christmas Station ID is more than just a catchy tune.

“Punong puno ng puso. Makikita sa lyrics. At lahat ng artist nag-lend ng boses,” he said.

Watch the ABSCBN's Christmas Special ID for 2023 'Pasko ang Pinakamagandang Kwento. 

ABS-CBN Christmas Special ID 2023 | Pasko Ang Pinakamagandang Kwento
#ABSCBNChristmasSID2023 #KwentongPaskoSID #ChristmasStationID

Lyrics by Robert Labayen & Lawrence Arvin Sibug 

Music by Kiko Salazar & Jonathan Manalo 

Arranged by Theo Martel & Tommy Katigbak 

Mixed & Mastered by Kiko Salazar 

Vocal Arrangement & Overall Music Production by Jonathan Manalo 

"Tayo Ang Ligaya Ng Isa’t Isa" - The 2022 ABS-CBN Christmas ID

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As the saying goes, there is always light at the end of a tunnel. But during the time we were immersed in the dark because of the pandemic and the challenges that came along with it, we’ve had to hold onto the little pockets of light and joy that kept us going—God, family, loved ones, and our friends. 

Now that we’re slowly easing into the normalcy of our lives, we let gratitude flow and express it through this year’s Christmas ID song “Tayo Ang Ligaya Ng Isa’t Isa.” We remember the reason for the season, and what better way to thank God but sing His praises in a bridge inspired by Gospel music? We also pay tribute to our life’s greatest blessings, the guiding stars that saw us through the most harrowing of times our generation has ever experienced: each other. 

Lyrics were written by ABS-CBN Creative Communication Management Head Robert Labayen, while ABS-CBN Music’s Creative Director Jonathan Manalo composed the music and headed the overall vocal arrangement and music production. Musical arrangement was done my Tommy Katigbak and Tim Recla rendered the final mixed and mastered song. 

The team behind the ABS-CBN Christmas ID 2022 Lyric Video: The 2022 Christmas ID Creative and Production Team: CCM Heads Robert Labayen & Johnny De los Santos, CID Director Paolo Ramos, Overall Head of Production Sheryl Ramos, Lead Producer Edsel Misenas, Production Assistant Dhalia Ga-as, Audio Engineer Paolo Ordoño, Producers Lawrence Arvin Sibug, Raywin Tome, Mark Bravo, Christian Faustino, Adrian Lim, Anna Charisse Perez, Revbrain Martin, Love Rose De Leon, Maria Lourdes Parawan, Kathrina Sanchez, Roda Baldonado, Kathrine Panganiban, Winter Delos Reyes, Talent Coordinators Winnie Mariano and Apple Segubience, Traffic and Operations Head Tess Perez-Mendoza and Production Designer Asia Sta. Maria. 

ABS-CBN Christmas ID 2022 Lyric Video Editing Team: Lyric video main editor Glenn James Albaytar, Motion graphics artist Karlo Emmanuel Victoriano and graphic artist Raphael Laureta, headed by Alfie Landayan. 

ALL FOR THE GLORY OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST! 

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ABS-CBN, TV5 reach partnership deal

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ABS-CBN Corp and TV5, the two giant stations in the country, have reached a new partnership deal where ABS-CBN has acquired shares from TV5, which is majorly owned by MediaQuest.

PLDT and MediaQuest Chairman Manuel Pangilinan, ABS-CBN Chairman Mark L. Lopez, and ABS-CBN President and CEO Carlo Katigbak sign a partnership deal for the two media companies.

Paving the way for a "strengthened partnership" between the two giant stations in the country, according to a joint statement, ABS-CBN Corp will acquire 6,459,393 primary (new) common shares in TV5, representing around 34.99% of the total voting and outstanding capital stock of TV5 for PHP2.16b.

The deal also sees MediaQuest, which is owned by the PLDT Beneficial Trust Fund, its stake reduced to 64.79 percent after the deal is finished. ABS-CBN can also acquire additional shares in TV5, which may increase the Kapamilya network’s stake in the Kapatid network to 49.92% after 8 years.

As part of the partnership deal as well, cable and satellite TV subsidiaries of ABS-CBN and PLDT also entered into a similar deal. Cignal Cable Corp, under MediaQuest, said it was acquiring 38.88% of Sky Cable Corp, under ABS-CBN, for PHP2.862b.

“The investment of Sky Cable by Cignal Cable is expected to benefit the former’s existing customer base consisting of over 300,000 cable subscribers and close to 350,000 broadband subscribers as of the end of June 2022,” MediaQuest said.

The company also added, “The proceeds of the sale of the Sale Shares, the Convertible Note and the issuance of the Debt Instrument in the total amount of PHP7.5b will be used to repay certain obligations of ABS-CBN and Sky Vision and to fund the investment of ABS-CBN in TV5.”

ABS-CBN Chairman Mark L. Lopez said the partnership was an opportunity to help TV5 grow, strengthen its free to air network, and take it to the next level.

“For ABS, it presents a fantastic platform for us to achieve synergies in production content and talent management as well as maximizing our content delivery. We look forward to be of greater service to the public as we come together in taking TV5 to the next level,” Lopez said.

Meanwhile, Manny Pangilinan, chairman at MediaQuest, commented, “ABS-CBN has always been the leading developer and provider of Filipino-related entertainment content not only in the Philippines but overseas as well. Our companies have always had these cherished values of providing top and quality programs in the service of the Filipino people and together we believe we can achieve this in greater measure and success.”

Last year, the ABS-CBN network began showing popular primetime programs of ABS-CBN such as ‘FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano’ as well as the long-running variety show ‘ASAP Natin ‘To’ on TV5.

Knowledge Channel ready to work with gov't in distance learning

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As the government shifts to distance learning due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Knowledge Channel is ready to share its video lessons that could reach as many as 7.6 million students, a huge portion of the 27 million expected to enroll this school year.

“Knowledge Channel is prepared to work with the government. We have created and acquired more than a thousand video lessons, all based on the K - 12 curriculum of the Department of Education and these are ready for use,” Knowledge Channel Foundation Inc. (KCFI) director for operations Edric Calma said. 

For 21 years, KCFI has developed and acquired multimedia educational materials that public schools nationwide, especially in remote regions used to enhance teaching and learning. They are aired over Knowledge Channel and used for instruction by KCFI-trained teachers and are also designed for home-based learning. Before ABS-CBN went off the air on May 5, Knowledge Channel aired over SKYcable, SKYdirect, ABS-CBN TVplus, and other cable and direct to home satellite TV providers, reaching millions of students. 

According to Calma, KCFI has developed into video format 50% of the most essential learning competencies (MELC) that DepEd requires to be taught for the school year, and that KCFI can easily develop the remaining 50%. 

Knowledge Channel’s method of using TV technology has proven to improve the performance of children in school. Studies conducted by the DLSU La Sallian Institute for Development and Educational Research and the UP Statistical Center for Research Foundation's Impact Study for Proficient Measures for Quality Education revealed that children who were taught using Knowledge Channel video lessons performed better in tests. 

“The most essential learning competencies are the minimum curriculum-prescribed skills that students must acquire,” Calma said.

Calma stressed that the 21st century DepEd curriculum is about understanding and creating designs, systems and processes, unlike in the past when students were just required to memorize. 

“Subjects like mathematics and the sciences involve understanding of processes, and they need to be visually illustrated for kids to understand,” he said, adding “with this kind of curriculum, we need TV.” 

Calma said that Knowledge Channel’s multimedia resources also teach kids critical thinking. 

“Children’s critical thinking and creativity are triggered by video lessons because we challenge them with questions at the beginning, halfway through and at the end of the episode,” Calma said.

Alice Panares, who sits in the board of the National Council for Children's Television, said that the government is faced with the near-impossible task of training a 900,000-strong teaching workforce to teach students using media before the August opening of classes. 

To address this problem, Panares suggested that Knowledge Channel be tapped at the very onset of the distance learning program. 

“While the teachers are being trained, why not tap first the lessons of Knowledge Channel since it already has existing materials,” Panares said, adding that “Knowledge Channel has done a very complete work in educating the students in different areas.”

Panares said that Knowledge Channel is ready with the different subjects that are already in the form of TV lessons made for different grade levels. “I’ve watched many of the lessons and they are ready for airing for the DepEd,” she said.

KCFI president and executive director Rina Lopez Bautista appealed that KCFI be given the chance to share with the government its expertise for the sake of the children. 

Lopez Bautista said, “We believe that learning must continue for all and that no child should be left behind. We appeal to our lawmakers and the Filipino people to recognize ABS-CBN’s contributions to education and that ABS-CBN is granted a new franchise so that we can again reach the children no matter where they are in the Philippines. The Knowledge Channel Foundation continues, and will be working to continue to be in the service of Filipino children.” 

'FPJ's Ang Probinsyano' and other favorite Kapamilya shows return on cable and satellite TV

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Cardo Dalisay and other iconic Kapamilya teleserye characters are returning to TV to bring entertainment, inspiration, and relief to Filipinos as some of the well-loved ABS-CBN shows will be shown on Kapamilya Channel, which will be available on cable and satellite TV nationwide beginning June 13.

Kapamilya Channel will be available on SKY, Cablelink, G Sat, and most member-cable operators of the Philippine Cable Television Association (PCTA) nationwide.

While Kapamilya Channel will initially be seen by cable and satellite TV viewers only, ABS-CBN will find more ways to reach more Filipinos and bring news, public service, and entertainment to every Kapamilya around the world.

Viewers can watch Cardo’s adventures in “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano” starting with a ten-episode recap of this season’s story before the new episodes are released. Also on weeknights, the mission of brave soldiers in “A Soldiers” Heart” will continue while weekdays will unveil the family drama in “Love Thy Woman.”

“Magandang Buhay” momshies Jolina Magdangal, Melai Cantiveros, and Karla Estrada will continue their heartwarming discussions on weekday mornings, while the new season of “The Voice Teens” will feature talented teen singers and superstar coaches Apl.de.ap, Sarah Geronimo, Bamboo, and Lea Salonga on weekends.

“TV Patrol” will continue to deliver the most relevant news and information to viewers every evening. More movies and classic TV shows will also be aired on the channel to provide relief and inspiration to viewers.

Besides the many well-loved programs that will be going back on air, some new shows will also be launched.

Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo will be seen every Saturday in the new show called “Paano Kita Mapasasalamatan,” while Angel Locsin will be hosting “Iba ‘Yan” every Sunday. Both of these are public service programs that will put the spotlight on stories and experiences of real people and the life challenges that they face.

“The World of a Married Couple,” the highest-rating cable Koreanovela, also makes its debut on Kapamilya Channel on June 15.

Filipinos from all over the world, meanwhile, will not be left out because they will be able to watch all Filipino programs on Kapamilya Channel, including the new episodes, on TFC.

Encouraged by the overwhelming love and support of the public, ABS-CBN remains committed to serving its audiences even after it was ordered to stop operating its radio and television stations on May 5 by the National Telecommunications Commission.

The cable and satellite TV channels that will carry the Kapamilya Channel are owned and operated by other companies and are not covered by the cease and desist order issued by the NTC to ABS-CBN.

Welcome your favorite Kapamilya shows on Kapamilya Channel on SKY, Cablelink, G Sat, and most member-cable operators PCTA nationwide beginning June 13.

House Speaker Cayetano files bill giving ABS-CBN provisional franchise until October

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MANILA - House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano on Wednesday filed a bill giving ABS-CBN Corp. provisional franchise until October 2020, citing the need for Congress to focus on addressing the coronavirus crisis before tackling the network's "controversial" application for a fresh 25-year franchise. 

"Through this measure, we hope to strike a balance between the immediate needs of the people amid this crisis and the duty of Congress to ensure accountability to our present laws," read the bill, which cited government's need 

House Bill No. 6732 grants ABS-CBN provisional franchise to operate until October 31, 2020, before Congress deliberates on long-pending bills giving the media giant license to broadcast for another 25 years. 

The interim license will "give both the House of Representatives and the Senate [time] to hear the issues being raised for and against the renewal, and assess, with complete impartiality and fairness, whether or not the network shall be granted a franchise for another 25 years." 

"We cannot, in good conscience, sweep the accusations under the rug," read the bill's explanatory note. 

ABS-CBN earlier answered questions on alleged franchise violations and tax liabilities before the Senate, saying it has not violated any law. 

The bill was co-sponsored by Representatives Neptali Gonzalez, Raneo Abu, Roberto Puno, Dan Fernandez, LRay Villafuerte Jr., Ferdinand Romualdez, and Jose Antonio Sy-Alvarado. 

It was brought before the chamber's committee of the whole. 

The House Speaker earlier said starting hearings on ABS-CBN franchise bills would not mean an "automatic" grant of a fresh broadcast license. 

The National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) ordered ABS-CBN to stop broadcasting on May 5, a day after its franchise expired. 

The directive went against NTC's earlier commitment of giving "provisional authority" for the network to operate beyond its franchise validity. 

The House franchise panel last Monday ordered NTC to justify its cease and desist order against ABS-CBN, calling the telecoms regulatory body's halt directive an "undue interference on and disobedience to the exercise of the power of the House of Representatives."

Solicitor General Jose Calida was also accused of pressuring NTC to order the shutdown of ABS-CBN, based on a document obtained by ABS-CBN News.

ABS-CBN's halt in broadcast last week was the first time it was forced to sign off since the Marcos dictatorship. The shutdown imperils an estimated 11,000 jobs. 

It has asked the Supreme Court to stop the NTC shutdown order.

The network, which reached millions of Filipinos through its television, radio and online platforms, said it did not violate the law in its 65 years of service.

ABS-CBN goes off-air after NTC order

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In the midst of the country’s battle against the coronavirus pandemic, news broke about ABS-CBN‘s cease and desist order to operate.

On May 4, the franchise to operate by the country’s largest television network expires. 

ABS-CBN goes off-air on Tuesday evening, May 5, to comply with the cease and desist order of the National Telecommunications Commission

We see a flurry of verbal tussles among our lawmakers and legal luminaries on whether the giant network can continue to operate beyond May 4. The question at hand: can the Kapamilya network operate on the strength of a provisional authority issued by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) pending the renewal of the network’s franchise by Congress or not?

Last Sunday, the government chief lawyer, Solicitor General Jose Calida has warned the NTC against issuing a provisional authority in the absence of a Congress-approved franchise. A mere letter from leaders of the House of Representatives nor a resolution from the Senate would suffice to save the telecommunications regulatory body from possible legal responsibility.

And Solicitor General Calida minced no words in his warning that NTC commissioners could be liable under the country’s anti-graft and corruption laws should they grant ABS-CBN the provisional authority to operate without a franchise from Congress.

No less than former Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has made it clear in the past on what the law says—a law crafted by the same institution that wants to violate it or wants the NTC to infringe it.

“I don’t think the House or a committee of the House can compel the NTC to issue a provisional authority. There is no basis to give a provisional authority because there is no franchise,” Justice Carpio said in his past interviews.

Every franchise is a law because Republic Act No. 3846 requires all broadcasters to obtain a franchise from Congress before they are allowed to operate. And a provision under the law says a recipient of a franchise must obtain permits and licenses from the NTC in order to operate.

Another legal luminary, Congressman Edcel Lagman, said that only a full-fledged franchise for ABS-CBN can it be allowed to operate. What does this mean? The long and short of it is that Congress, where all broadcasting franchises emanate, should begin hearing the franchise application of ABS-CBN if it wants the network to continue airing. And this is the only solution.

ABS-CBN has remained steadfast in giving assistance to underprivileged Filipinos, rolling out fundraising campaigns and info drives, while its talents voluntarily help, enlighten, and comfort their fans, even as the network’s franchise’s supposed expiration.

ABS-CBN’s Pantawid ng Pag-ibig program, initiated to help families whose livelihood is affected by the community quarantine, has already turned over food and other basic necessities to 17 LGUs in Metro Manila. It has also expanded to reach beneficiaries in Bulacan, Laguna, Cavite, and Rizal provinces.

The network has also been arming Filipinos with relevant information on how to fight the COVID-19 disease through the Ligtas Pilipinas campaign.

Kapamilya stars like Kathryn Bernardo, Mica Javier, Ivana Alawi, and Iza Calzado are actively supporting the cause, promoting the importance of wearing masks using their own social media platforms.

While many are facing desolation under the community quarantine, ABS-CBN stars have continued to express their support—with live performances from their own homes, messages of comfort through the music, or donation drives to bring assistance to families suffering the most.

There are also Kapamilya artists who led projects of their own accord, such as Angel Locsin for #UniTENTWeStandPH and Bela Padilla who raised funds to buy food for informal workers. Sisters Alex Gonzaga and Toni Gonzaga meanwhile provided relief goods to indigent families.

Other celebrities like Bea Alonzo, Pokwang, Ejay Falcon, and Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo prepared meals and distributed them to front liners, while the likes of Enchong Dee, Ria Atayde, and Vice Ganda used their own earnings to purchase masks, PPEs, and other medical supplie s for health workers.

The question on whether the network deserves a new franchise seems superfluous, now more than ever, given how it has given priority to serving the public and extending help outside of its core services.

With ABS-CBN’s reach all over the Philippines and overseas via TFC, it has helped bond the nation in this time of turmoil, empowering its viewers to lend a helping hand and promoting the value of compassion along the way.

It is the Filipinos who will win big if ABS-CBN’s franchise is renewed. It is the audiences who will gain from the network’s news, entertainment, and public service projects. Its franchise renewal will ensure that the public can benefit from all these services.

Statement on the cease and desist order issued by the NTC to ABS-CBN

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Millions of Filipinos will lose their source of news and entertainment when ABS-CBN is ordered to go off-air on TV and radio tonight (5 May 2020) when people need crucial and timely information as the nation deals with the COVID-19 pandemic.

This is in compliance with the cease and desist order issued by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) today that prohibits ABS-CBN from continuing its broadcast operations effective immediately.

Despite Senate Resolution No. 40, the House of Representatives’ committee on legislative franchises’ letter, the guidance of the Department of Justice, and the sworn statement of NTC Commissioner Gamaliel Cordoba, the NTC did not grant ABS-CBN a provisional authority to operate while its franchise renewal remains pending in Congress.

In an interview with DZMM last week, House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano even gave an assurance that there is no move to shut down the network.

ABS-CBN has been providing comprehensive news coverage on the public health crisis and working with local governments and the private sector in providing food and basic goods for those in need through its “Pantawid ng Pag-ibig” campaign. To date, it has delivered over P300 million worth of goods for the benefit of over 600,000 families affected by the enhanced community quarantine.

We trust that the government will decide on our franchise with the best interest of the Filipino people in mind, recognizing ABS-CBN’s role and efforts in providing the latest news and information during these challenging times.

ABS-CBN remains committed to being in the service of the Filipino and we will find ways to continue providing meaningful service to them.

Watch “Ang Huling El Bimbo” Musical Stream Online

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Full House Theater Company has just announced that OPM musical Ang Huling El Bimbo will be streaming online this May!

Initially opening in July 2018, the production has had three runs at the Newport Performing Arts Theater, with the most recent run closing in August 2019. Set to the music of 90’s band The Eraserheads, the show is written by Dingdong Novenario, with musical direction by Myke Salomon, dramaturgy by Floy Quintos, set design by Gino Gonzales, lighting design by Monino Duque, sound design by Rards Corpus, costume design by Marlon Rivera, and direction and choreography by Dexter M. Santos.

The musical tells the story of three friends who have drifted apart in adulthood until fate reunites them to confront their haunted past.

The cast in the final run featured a mix of original and returning cast members– Gian Magdangal and David Ezra as Hector, OJ Mariano and Myke Salomon as Emman, Jon Santos and Rafa Siguion-Reyna as Anthony, Menchu Lauchengco-Yulo (also associate director) and Carla Guevara Laforteza as Joy, Reb Atadero and Bibo Reyes as Young Hector, Boo Gabunada and Vic Robinson as Young Emman, Lance Reblando and Phi Palmos as Young Anthony, Tanya Manalang and Gab Pangilinan as Young Joy, Sheila Francisco as Tiya Dely, and Jamie Wilson and Jonathan Tadioan as Banlao. Paolo O’Hara also joined the cast as alternate to Banlao.

The online initiative is for the benefit of ABS-CBN Foundation’s Pantawid ng Pag-ibig. The show will only be available for 48 hours, from May 8, 12:01am until May 9, 11:59pm. 

You can watch it on the ABS-CBN Entertainment YouTube page and on the ABS-CBN Facebook page.

The Gold Squad stars Andrea Brillantes, Francine Diaz, Seth Fedelin, and Kyle Echarri movies part of iWant’s anniversary offerings

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From their top-rating teleserye “Kadenang Ginto,” The Gold Squad stars Andrea Brillantes, Francine Diaz, Seth Fedelin, and Kyle Echarri bring the magic of young love from TV to digital as they star in their first movies as love teams that will start streaming back-to-back on iWant on November 23 and 27.

As part of iWant’s first anniversary offerings, the movies will not only feature the phenomenal love teams of Kyle and Francine’s KyCine and Andrea and Seth’s SethDrea, but will also encourage fans to join in the fun by letting them decide which of the two movies will stream first via a Facebook poll that will run from November 13 to 22.

“Silly Red Shoes” 

Two long-time friends will navigate romance in KyCine’s “Silly Red Shoes,” which revolves around sweet and shy Chuck (Kyle) and simple and good-hearted Ashley (Francine). Planning to revive his family’s worn out shoe business, Chuck asks for the help of Ashley to model a new pair of shoes for a contest. Insecure of her “alien feet,” which change sizes every day, Ashley finds a reliable and determined shoemaker in Chuck.

As the two grow closer, they discover a secret behind a mysterious pair of red shoes that seem to be too perfect for Ashley.

“Silly Red Shoes,” which is directed by James Mayo and co-produced by Dreamscape Entertainment and Spring Films, also stars Anna Luna, Karen Reyes, and Herbert Bautista.

 “Wild Little Love” 

SethDrea’s “Wild Little Love,” Sam (Andrea) is a spoiled, rich girl forced to attend a public high school as punishment for her wild, chaotic behavior. Having a hard time adjusting to her new environment, she gets help from hardworking chick magnet Jake (Seth), who teaches her the ways of the simple life.

As the two start to catch feelings for each other, they slowly discover that the large gap between their socio-economic backgrounds will hinder their blossoming relationship.

“Wild Little Love,” is directed by Benedict Mique and co-produced by Dreamscape Entertainment and LoneWolf films. It also stars Carmina Villaroel, Alfred Vargas, Criza Taa, Jin Macapagal, and Victor Neri.

Are you Team Silly or Team Wild? Vote for the movie you want to watch first via Dreamscape Entertainment’s official Facebook page (facebook.com/DreamscapePH) starting November 13 (Wednesday), 8 PM until November 22 (Friday), 10 PM.

Watch The Gold Squad’s first movies on the iWant app (iOs and Android) or iwant.ph for free on November 23 and 27. For updates, like www.facebook.com/iWant, and follow @iwant on Twitter and @iwantofficial and @dreamscapedigital on Instagram, and subscribe to www.youtube.com/iWantPH.

Coke Studio Season 3 : Sarah Geronimo with This Band

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WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER

For many Filipinos, home is not a place. Home is family. For the season 3 Coke Studio episode that focuses on family feels, the artists featured feel a strong and particular resonance for the idea of family.

Sarah Geronimo

Sarah Geronimo has often been praised for her love and devotion to her family. “I really love my family and all the sacrifices they have made for me. Whatever happens in life, wherever my career takes me, God gave me a gift that grounds me and keeps me humble, so that I know who I am,” she declares. She also adds that being invited to be part of Coke Studio Season 3 is like being invited to a family reunion of sorts. “When I used to see the Coke Studio billboard, when I would get stuck in traffic, I found it so cool, and I really thought to myself, ‘Wow, I wish that I could be a part of that.’"

This Band are Andrea Manzano (vocals), Euwie Von Loria(guitar), Miccael Galvan (bass), John Kenneth Macaranas(drums), Melvin Carson (keyboard) and Reymart Gubat(lead guitar). They consider themselves as a family, since they all grew up near each other. They started their career jamming in the food parks around their neighborhood. They also consider Sarah part of their extended showbiz family because of their management group. Euwie says, “But at first, we couldn’t believe that this early in our career, we could be working with her. It’s as if our career will be fast-tracked, things are going beyond what we imagined.”  

This Band

Andrea adds, “And we’re so happy that we get to remake her song, because her music is really part of the soundtrack of our lives."

And just like in a real family, Sarah feels like an older sister, and she can pass on some wisdom to her young colleagues. Sarah reminisces, “When I was starting out, what was important, yung maging plakado. But now, the young ones, they’re so free. And that’s great because what really matters with any performance, is that you put your heart into it. So I would just remind them to always put your all into a performance.” 

Watch how Sarah Geronimo and This Band collaborate for Coke Studio Season 3. Catch them this coming October 26, at 10:00 a.m. on ABS-CBN or online at www.youtube.com/CokeStudioPH .

Billy, Nadine, and Boy are judges in two-in-one talent-reality competition "One Moment" hosted by Luis and Vhong

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ABS-CBN presents the world premiere of the newest breakthrough talent-reality format “Your Moment,” a collaboration between the country’s leading network and Dutch powerhouse creator Fritz Productions, to put a spotlight on Filipino and foreign singing and dancing acts from all ages, crowning two grand champions in each talent category in the finals.

“Your Moment” will be hosted by multi-awarded TV personality Luis Manzano and dance icon Vhong Navarro. Starts on November 9, the show boasts an esteemed panel of judges composed of international RnB sensation Billy Crawford, multimedia princess Nadine Lustre, and star builder Boy Abunda who will evaluate the acts' performances using an emotion meter knob that will reflect their scores in real time.

The pioneering show will add color and high-intensity moments to viewers’ weekends with its state-of-the-art revolving immersive set, where the audience and the judges will witness all the electric performances from the dancing to the singing stage, and vice versa.

The acts will be under scrutinizing eyes as the judges bring their own expertise and experiences to the table --- Billy as a world-class performer and premier host who burst into the international scene in his early teens, Nadine as a former sing-and-dance girl group member before becoming an award-winning actress and bankable recording artist, and Boy as a respected TV personality, talent manager of some of the country's showbiz icons, and a credible talent search judge.

https://youtu.be/s_W3pT9jE0w

Each performance starts in black and white and bursts with lights and color as it progresses, while the judges have to input their scores three times using an emotion meter knob, with 1 as the lowest score and 10 the highest. An emotion meter also appears on-screen reflecting the scores given by the judges every time a performance reaches the three time markers (20 seconds, 60 seconds, and 90 seconds), which indicate the time the judges can score.

The acts will have to power through four competition levels in order to become one of the grand champions: “Your First Moment,” “Your Moment of Choice,” “Your Moment of Power,” and “Your Grand Moment.”

In the first level called “Your First Moment,” each episode will feature three singing acts and three dancing acts who will be given two minutes each to impress the judges

In “Your Moment of Choice,” the second level of the competition, highest-ranking acts will get to pick their opponents in an exhilarating three-way showdown.

Meanwhile, in the third level called “Your Moment of Power,” top performers will be given the chance to choose from respected local and international mentors in the entertainment industry. Both the second and third levels will follow the “beat the winner” elimination process. 

Finally, in the “Your Grand Moment” level, the top three acts per category will compete in a series of rounds that will determine one grand winner in each category.

Witness world-class talents, stories of inspiration and camaraderie, and extraordinary moments in the world premiere of “Your Moment” on November 9. 

For updates, like www.facebook.com/yourmomentph and follow @yourmomentph on Twitter and Instagram.

“It’s Showtime's" 10th Anniversary Celebration with 10 big surprises

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For 10 years, 'It's Showtime" share happiness to many viewers and people around the world. 

And now, “It’s Showtime” brings its biggest anniversary celebration to date called “Sampu Sample,” a year-long festival of surprises that marks the program’s ten years of making Filipinos happy and invites all madlang people to not just have fun but also help in taking care of the environment and making a difference.

First of the ten surprises is the hosts’ annual Magpasikat competition this October, featuring the following groups: Anne Curtis, Amy Perez, and Bidaman Top 6; Jugs Jugueta, Teddy Corpuz, ‘Ate Girl’ Jackie, Ion, and Stephen; Karylle, Ryan Bang, and GT; Vice Ganda and the Top 3 queens of “Miss Q & A’s” two seasons; and Vhong Navarro, Marielle Rodriguez, and Hashtags.

Each group’s Magpasikat performance is required to bring together ten dozen or 120 madlang people – ordinary Kapamilyas and not celebrities – and be given a chance to shine on national television.

The country’s number one noontime show also looks back on its ten years by relaunching its well-loved classic segments, including the dance competition that produced XB GenSan. 

“It’s Showtime” will also bring back other segments that kicked off the careers of world-class champions such as El Gamma Penumbra, Fourth Impact, Rachel Gabreza, and the TNT Boys and artists such as Onyok Pineda, Chunsa Jeung, Esang De Torres, GT, Hashtags, and the next Darna, Jane De Leon.

In the coming months, viewers and fans can also expect the program sharing more and more blessings, entertaining segments such as “Mr. Q & A” and “KapareWho” to churn out double the fun, the return of “Tawag ng Tanghalan,” and live shows with the hosts in in and out of the country.

For its tenth year, “It’s Showtime” is also pushing for environmental protection and conservation as it challenges the madlang people to support its advocacy project, whose details will be revealed soon.

Join the whole “It’s Showtime” family in celebrating its tenth anniversary beginning this October and watch it at noontime from Mondays to Saturdays on ABS-CBN on ABS-CBN HD (Sky Cable ch 167). For updates, follow @abscbnpr on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook or visit abscbnpr.com. To watch the program's episode online, just download the iWant app (iOs and Andoid) or register via iwant.ph.

PLDT, Smart unlock amazing digital experiences powered by PH’s fastest network

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Leading digital services providers PLDT, Inc. and Smart Communications unlock the future with new innovative products and services powered by the country's fastest fixed and mobile networks. In the photo: PLDT and Smart Chairman and CEO Manuel V. Pangilinan leads the celebratory toast with PLDT and Smart executives and partners from ABS-CBN, Cignal, ESPN 5, Google, Huawei, iflix, NBA, Oppo, Samsung, StarMobile, and Roku.

Fresh from their latest recognition as the Philippine’s fastest fixed and mobile networks, leading digital services provider PLDT Inc. and its mobile arm Smart Communications are ushering in a new wave of innovative products & services that aim to unlock amazing experiences for Filipinos whether they are in the comfort of their home or on the go.

PLDT and Smart presented their latest products at a powerhouse event aptly themed ‘Unlock the Future’ and graced by executives, endorsers, celebrities, and partners in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.

“Over the past years, we’ve been hard at work to future-proof our network and beef up our digital content and product partners. We’re delighted to present our most exciting services that are designed to meet the ever-evolving needs of Filipinos,” said Oscar A. Reyes, Jr., PLDT and Smart SVP and Consumer Business Market Development Head.

“Backed by our fastest networks, these innovative solutions will elevate the way our customers enjoy digital devices, services, and content. As we get ready to close 2018 and prepare for a new year ahead, we will continue our groundbreaking work to help empower Filipinos to enjoy an amazing life,” said Andrew L. Santos, PLDT-Smart FVP and Consumer Marketing Head.

Unlocking an amazing life for Filipinos

To establish even stronger connections at home, PLDT has introduced the new PLDT Home Fibr Google Wifi Plans, which feature a whole home wifi network system that puts an end to dead spots and ensures strong and Fibr-fast connection in every corner of your home.

New PLDT Home customers can now subscribe to Google Wifi Plan 3799, which comes with an unlimited 50Mbps connection, three Google Wifi points, and free service assistance from the Home Geek Squad. On the other hand, existing PLDT Home Fibr customers can simply avail of Google Wifi units as an add-on for Php799 per month for a set of three.

PLDT is also unlocking a new entertainment experience at home with the upcoming launch of the new PLDT Home TVolution Lite that is powered by Roku®. The new service features a plug-and-play device that allows customers to easily and effortlessly watch trending videos on YouTube; their favorite HD channels from Cignal; Top Hollywood, Asian and local movies and TV series from iflix; critically-acclaimed Netflix originals and films, and hundreds of free streaming channels on their TV.

Following their support for the much celebrated Esports and Gaming Summit 2018 and the recently concluded ‘Road to the Nationals,’ which awarded the country’s top DOTA 2 and Tekken 7 players, PLDT and Smart also affirmed their commitment to deliver the best gaming experience for Filipino gamers powered by PLDT Home Fibr, the fastest Fibr connection for lag-free gaming at home, and Smart LTE, the fastest LTE network for gaming on-the-go.

Unlocking bigger and more rewarding experiences

On the other hand, buoyed by the massive success of its Free YouTube campaign, which more than doubled the daily active YouTube users on its network and drove over 13 times more data usage traffic from customers, Smart has stepped up to unlock total entertainment with Video Every Day.

A new promo that comes with all of Smart’s GigaSurf data packages, Video Every Day provides customers with up to 1 hour of Video access daily for YouTube, iflix, iWant TV, Cignal Play and NBA League Pass - for as long as their GigaSurf subscription is valid. Smart customers can now register to GigaSurf with Video Every Day by simply dialing *121# or via the mySmart app.

Apart from these services, Smart has also announced game-changing partnerships with popular smartphone manufacturers Oppo, Samsung, and Starmobile to encourage more Filipinos to upgrade to LTE-capable handsets that come with special discounts and freebies.

Among these special LTE-capable handsets are the OPPO A71 Smart LTE phone kit, which is now available for Php5,998 (from the original SRP of Php6,990); the Samsung J2 Core Smart LTE Phone Kit priced at Php4,990 (from Php5,990); and Starmobile Play Click TNT LTE phone kit, which is very affordable at Php2,998 (from Php3,490).

To offer a much bigger digital experience, Smart also continues to strengthen its portfolio of the latest flagship devices with the data-packed GigaX Plans, which feature separate data allocations for streaming videos, as well as enjoying apps and surfing websites.

Smart offers the newly launched Huawei Mate 20 with the GigaX Plans at Php2199 per month, and the Huawei Mate 20 Pro at Php2,599 per month.

Smart also makes it easier for customers to get hold of the latest iPhones, starting with the iPhone XS at Php3,299 per month, and the iPhone XS Max at Php3,599 per month. The Samsung Galaxy Note 9 is also available with the Smart GigaX Plans.

Finally, in celebration of its 25th anniversary, Smart announced its biggest anniversary e-raffle promo in the company’s history, which gives customers a chance to win data packages, MVP Rewards points, LTE smartphones every month, leading up to the grand raffle on February 25, 2019 in which one lucky subscriber will win Php25 million cash! To join, subscribers need only to register to select data promos and add-ons.

Twin awards for the country’s fastest network

Earlier this year, PLDT and Smart were cited for being the country’s fastest fixed and mobile networks for Q1-Q2 2018, respectively, by Ookla®, the global leader in internet testing and analysis.

Just recently, independent mobile analytics company OpenSignal also cited Smart for providing its customers the best video experience in the country. The UK-based firm has published an independent analysis of the customer experience for video services by telecom carriers in Asia, showing that Smart garnered a video experience score of 42.2, well ahead of competition in the Philippines and well above the national average.

OpenSignal also recognized Smart earlier this year for having the country’s fastest LTE network, awarding the company with four citations including best in 4G LTE download speed; best in overall download speed; best 4G latency performance; and best 3G latency performance in its March 2018 report.